Traverse City Travel Blog

The City of Traverse City was incorporated on May 18, 1895, making her 125 years old! Let’s celebrate her with a memorable and fun virtual Quarantine Quasquicentennial birthday party. Together, but apart, we will toast 125 years to our favorite Queen City of the North.

This year, the National Cherry Festival made history, cancelling the festival for only the second time in nearly 100 years. (The first time was during World War II.) We’ll all miss the beloved cherry celebration, none more so than the fantastic team that puts on the festival. We asked them to share some of their favorite memories over the years to keep the cherry love going during these challenging times. 

Photo: Briana Paige, Photographer at Northern Way of Life

Splashing in the water, relaxing on the beach, and watching a sunset. These are the moments when you find your happy place. We've rounded up a selection of quotes and photos from travel writers and photographers who have shared their special places in the area.

Traverse City Tourism is going virtual with DIY TC, a new Zoom video series that helps you get a little “up north” into your day. Whether it’s sharing tips on food and beer pairings or exploring a beautiful trail, local experts will help you learn something new or experience the best of northern Michigan.

It’s not quite a meal, but it deserves an hour of the day like any other consumption time. And truly, is there anything better than a good coffee spot? Paired with just the right playlist and the atmosphere for whatever mood, the coffee scene in Traverse City is hot right now. Here’s the latest for your caffeinating pleasure. 

Simply put, the real attraction in Traverse City is outside. No matter when you decide to visit, you’ll feel the positive energy from the treetops to the crashing waves. It fuels the lifestyle here and tells both the outdoor novice and the extreme expert to adventure on. In all four seasons, we listen. 

The penchant for alcohol, in all its forms, continues to evolve in Traverse City. First, there were the wineries. Boutique, often family run endeavors that began in the 70s, they gained a reputation for their signature Chardonnays and Rieslings. Then came the breweries, riding the wave of the craft movement that started in the 80s on the West Coast. Today, “hop heads” can enjoy everything from a chocolatey Stout to a golden Saison in over 15 (and counting) breweries.

If you’re a morning person, you’re in good company in Traverse City. Especially if breakfast is your thing.

Many visitors use the words “Traverse City” as a kind of shorthand for the entire region of peninsulas, islands and forested highlands surrounding Michigan’s Grand Traverse Bay. 

The Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is the most popular single attraction in the Traverse City area, and it’s a rare visitor who won’t trudge up the Dune Climb, motor along the Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive or frolic on the beach at Good Harbor sometime during their stay.